Pertussis (whooping cough) Information
On June 26, 2023, Manitoba Health declared a pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak in the Southern Health region. Use the information below to learn more about the illness and how to prevent it.
What you need to know
There is currently an increased risk of pertussis cases in northwestern Ontario. Pertussis spreads easily through droplets in the air when a person who has it coughs or sneezes.
Why pertussis matters
Pertussis is a bacterial infection causing severe and continued coughing. It can affect people of any age; however, infants one year and younger are at greater risk of serious complications including pneumonia, brain damage/disease, seizures, and death.
What you can do
You can:
- Get vaccinated! Call your health care provider or your local NWHU office to book an appointment.
- People who are eligible for a pertussis-containing vaccine are:
- Infants at 2, 4, 6 & 18 months of age
- Children between the ages of 4 – 6 years
- Most youth between 14 -16 years
- Pregnant individuals (during each pregnancy)
- Adults aged 18 and over who have not received a dose in adulthood
- People who are eligible for a pertussis-containing vaccine are:
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Avoid contact with babies if you are not up to date on your vaccinations.
- Tell your health care provider about any travel or exposure to someone with pertussis when seeking care.
For more information on symptoms and what a pertussis cough sounds like visit Health Canada’s page on pertussis / whooping cough.